The effects of various training intensity levels on anaerobic threshold, aerobic power, and aerobic capacity in young females / by Emma Sue Gibbons

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three selected training intensity levels on anaerobic threshold, aerobic cower, and aerobic capacity of young females. Anaerobic threshold (AT), aerobic capacity (MAX VO[subscript2],), and aerobic power (AP) were determined on young females (N = 29) during a maximum oxygen consumption test on a motorized treadmill using the modified Balke protocol. The subjects were then randomly assigned to one of three training groups as follows: (1) forty percent above AT, (2) at AT, and (3) forty percent below AT. All subjects trained on motorized treadmills at individual training heart rates (+ 5 beats per minute) four times per week for a total of eight weeks. At the conclusion of the eight-week training program, the subjects were again given a maximum oxygen consumption test using the modified Balke protocol. The results indicated a significant difference on aerobic capacity and aerobic power between trials and a significant difference was found between groups on anaerobic threshold with the AT+ Group being different from the AT- Group. Based on the results of the present study, the following conclusions were established: 1. Aerobic capacity and aerobic power can be increased in females through training. 2. Aerobic capacity can be improved in females by training at 10% above anaerobic threshold, at anaerobic threshold, and at 40% below anaerobic threshold. 3. Aerobic power can be improved in females by training at 40% above anaerobic threshold, at anaerobic threshold, and at 40% below anaerobic threshold.